Four Rescued from Flooded River After Ignoring Warning
Victoria Police have released dramatic footage of a rescue operation that saved four people from a flooded river in Glenmaggie, hoping to warn the public about the dangers of driving through floodwaters. The incident occurred on Thursday at approximately 8pm on Burgoyne Track, where a Nissan Patrol became trapped while attempting to cross the Macalister River, which was under a minor flood warning.
Vehicle Swept Downstream
The car floated and stalled after entering the water, then drifted about 25 metres downstream before coming to a stop. The four occupants—three women and one man—climbed onto the roof of the vehicle and waited for the police Air Wing to locate them. Police said the Air Wing lowered an officer to rescue the group, winching them to safety one by one.
Hospital Checks and Vehicle Recovery
All four were transported to hospital for assessment, described as cold and wet but unharmed. The Nissan Patrol will be recovered by the occupants once the river level recedes. Victoria Police urged motorists to monitor local conditions and remain alert during flood warnings, however minor. “Be prepared to act if your situation changes and stay informed by listening to emergency broadcasters and monitoring warnings,” police said. “Floodwater is dangerous—please refrain from driving, walking or riding through floodwater.”
